Video & HQ Audio: https://podcastage.com/rev/at2020usbx
Today I review a new USB mic from Audio Techncia, the 2020USB-X. This is an update to the 2020USB+ and it's offering higher conversion 24-bit/96kHz and it adds a new mute button. It comes with a desktop stand as well which the original did not, but it abandons the standard 2020 mount that the original USB+used in lieu of a 1/4" threading on the bottom. It offers a clear sound that leans into the territory of being a bit harsh, and it picks up a bit more room tone and reflections than I'd prefer. However, in a world of decreasing plug and play mics, it offers a pretty decent sound for those who need the limited functionality.
Buy the Audio Technica AT2020USB-X (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/at2020usbx
Sweetwater: n/a
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/44A0Pnj
Thomann: https://www.thomannmusic.com/audio_technica_at2020usb_x.htm?offid=1&affid=2060
NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Computer Level: 29%
Boosted in Post: +0dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response : 20Hz - 20kHz
Bit Depth: 16/24-bit
Sample Rate: 44.1 - 96kHz
00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:24 - What’s in the Box
00:48 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:33 - Specifications
01:46 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:05 - Plosive Test
02:24 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:41 - Background Noise Test
02:57 - Untreated Room Test
03:18 - Shock Rejection Test
03:36 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:50 - Mute Button Test
04:04 - Desktop Stand Test
04:35 - Intro to Comparison
05:03 - Razer Seiren Mini Comparison
05:32 - Blue Snowball Comparison
06:00 - Samson C01u Pro Comparison
06:28 - Blue Yeti (Original) Comparison
07:00 - Rode NT-USB Mini Comparison
07:26 - Blue Yeti Nano Comparison
07:54 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
08:28 - Audio Technica AT2500X-USB Comparison
08:57 - Sennheiser Profile Comparison
09:30 - Audio Technica AT2020USB+ Comparison
10:10 - Elgato Wave 3 Comparison
10:42 - sE Electronics Neom Comparison
11:11 - Rode NT-USB+ Comparison
11:35 - Blue Yeti X Comparison
12:11 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
12:41 - Music Test
14:09 - Pros & Cons
15:49 - Overall Thoughts
17:22- Recommendation
19:00 - Outro